Thunder Trim Payroll in Three-Team Deal
Oklahoma City moved Lu Dort to Atlanta in a three-team transaction that sends Zaccharie Risacher to Dallas and returns three future second-round picks to the Thunder. The deal also includes Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe heading out, generating $224 million in luxury tax and payroll savings that pushes Oklahoma City below the second apron. The incoming draft capital consists of a 2027 second-rounder from Chicago via Dallas, plus the most favorable 2031 and 2032 second-round selections from Atlanta.
Atlanta adds a physical perimeter defender on an expiring $18.2 million contract to pair with Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, creating what could be the league’s toughest defensive trio on the wings. The Hawks finished 28-15 after moving Trae Young to Washington last January, posting a +4.9 net rating and taking two games from New York in the first round. With $40 million in projected cap space next summer and a roster built around Jalen Johnson, Atlanta maintains flexibility for a larger move while fielding a disruptive defensive unit immediately.
Mavericks Take Flier on Risacher
Dallas acquires the 2024 No. 1 overall pick in a low-cost reclamation project. Risacher has struggled through two seasons, grading in the 26th percentile defensively on EPM while shooting 36 percent from three on limited volume. The 21-year-old wing offers minimal shot creation or playmaking, but a change of scenery alongside Cooper Flagg could unlock the 3-and-D profile he was drafted to fill. General manager Mike Schmitz, who covered the draft for ESPN before joining the front office, views the upside as worth the minimal investment.
Sam Presti continues his pattern of moving core pieces before expensive extensions arrive, having previously dealt Josh Giddey to acquire Alex Caruso. With max contracts for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren now active, Oklahoma City replaces veteran role players with cost-controlled draft assets and creates runway for Cason Wallace’s extension. The Thunder entered the offseason as the consensus No. 1 team in early power rankings, and their title window now hinges on Williams and Holmgren recapturing their 2025 championship form while younger guards like Ajay Mitchell, Nikola Topic, and rookie Bennett Stirtz absorb expanded roles.